General Assembly: 103rd Plenary meeting (resumed), 80th session

The 103rd Plenary Meeting of the General Assembly is resumed. The Assembly will resume its consideration of Agenda Item 178, entitled Follow-up to the Implementation of the New Urban Agenda and Strengthening of the United Nations Human Settlement Programme, UN-Habitat, to hear the remaining speakers of the High-Level Meeting of the Assembly on the Midterm Review of the New Urban Agenda. Before giving the floor to the first speaker from my list, I would like to remind delegations that the time limit will be 5 minutes for individual delegations and 7 minutes for statements made on behalf of group of states, which will be strictly enforced by means of automatic microphone cutoff. To assist delegations in managing their time, a countdown clock will be displayed on the screens. Having said this, I would appeal to all speakers to deliver their statements at a reasonable pace to facilitate interpretation into the 6 official languages. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran.

Madam President, thank you very much for the floor. The Islamic Republic of Iran has continued to take concrete steps to promote more balanced, inclusive, and resilient urban development. Guided by its national development strategies, Iran has expanded urban infrastructure and public services, promoted sustainable public transportation, supported affordable housing programs, and strengthened national capacities for disaster risk reduction, climate adaptation, and urban resilience. As one of the most disaster-prone countries in the region, exposed to earthquakes, droughts, climate change, floods, and sand and dust storms, Iran has gained valuable experience in disaster preparedness and resilient building. At the national and international level, we have consistently promoted cooperation on environmental challenges, particularly through initiatives to strengthening coordination, facilitate knowledge sharing, and enhance collective action to address sand and dust storms. These efforts demonstrate an important reality: while national action is indispensable, sustainable urban development ultimately depends on effective international cooperation. We therefore welcome the Declaration's emphasis on strengthened international cooperation, South-South cooperation, and adequate means of implementation. In this regard, the United Nations has a central role to play. Through stronger coordination, partnership, and support for national implementation, the organization can help translate global commitments into practical results. A stronger New Urban Agenda therefore requires a stronger UN-Habitat, equipped with adequate, predictable resources and enhanced operational capacities to better support member states, particularly developing countries. Madam President, at the same time, national efforts cannot succeed without an enabling international environment. Many developing countries continue to face multiple and interconnected challenges, including poverty, widening inequalities, climate change, natural disasters, economic shocks, conflict, and military aggression. Madam President, the implementation of the New Urban Agenda must go beyond physical planning. It must also be funded upon peace, justice, respect for international law, and genuine international cooperation. Sustainable urban development cannot be achieved without peace. The military aggressions against the Islamic Republic of Iran in violation of the Charter of the United Nations and the fundamental principles of international law, has demonstrated how quickly decades of development can be placed at risk. Behind the tragic loss of civilian lives, including the attack on Minob Girls' Primary School, where 148 schoolchildren were killed instantly, these unlawful acts damaged critical infrastructure, disrupts essential public services, and causes long-term environmental harm. Pollution, contamination of natural resources, degradation of ecosystems, and risks to public health will continue to affect communities long after the immediate crisis has passed. Such consequences remain— remind us that protecting peace is also essential for for protecting sustainable development. Another serious obstacle is the continued use of unilateral coercive measures. These measures restrict access to finance, technology, essential equipment, and international cooperation, therefore weakening national capacities to mobilize infrastructure, protect the environment, and improve the quality of life in our cities. In doing so, they impede especially— they impede especially the implementation of the New Urban Agenda. Their removal is therefore essential for strengthening multilateralism and enabling sustainable development under the central coordination role of the United Nations. In closing, Madam President, the Islamic Republic of Iran reiterates that the implementation of the New Urban Agenda must fully respect the principle of sovereign equality, the right to development, national ownerships and sovereign right of every state to determine its own development priorities. The future of our cities will not be determined by urban planning alone. It will depend on whether we choose operation—

cooperation over confrontation, solidarity over deviation, respect for international law over

I thank the distinguished representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Costa Rica.

Thank you, Madam President. Costa Rica thanks you for convening this high-level meeting. 10 years after the adoption of the New Urban Agenda, The question is no longer whether we share a common vision for our cities. The real test is whether we can translate that vision into tangible results. The future of sustainable development will largely be determined by the way we plan, finance, and govern our cities. Costa Rica believes that accelerating the implementation of the New Urban Agenda requires simultaneous action on 3 fronts. First, we must strengthen urban development grounded in human rights by ensuring universal access to adequate housing, safe drinking water, sanitation, sustainable transport, and safe public spaces, while leaving no one behind, particularly women and girls, persons with disabilities, older persons, Indigenous Peoples, and other groups in vulnerable situations. Second, we must fully integrate climate resilience into urban policies. Through sustainable spatial planning, nature-based solutions, resilient infrastructure, and efficient water management. This requires strengthening the capacities of local governments and ensuring that they have access to adequate, predictable, and sustainable financing. Third, we must bridge the gap between commitments and implementation through effective multi-level governance, strong institutions, quality data, innovation, and an inclusive digital transformation that enhances planning and accountability. Madam President, there can be no 2030 Agenda without sustainable cities, nor can there be sustainable cities without bold political decisions, adequate means of implementation, and a multilateral system capable of turning agreements into action. This high-level meeting must mark a turning point. The political declaration should become a roadmap for accelerating implementation, mobilizing resources, and strengthening international cooperation. The coming decade must be remembered as the moment when the international community decisively moved from commitments to results. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Costa Rica. I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Mozambique.

Madam President, distinguished delegates, Mozambique welcomes the convening of this high-level meeting on the midterm review of the New Urban Agenda. Mozambique aligns itself with the statement delivered by Uruguay on behalf of the G77, and we wish to add the following in our national capacity. Mozambique is one of the most rapidly urbanizing countries in sub-Saharan Africa, expanding under the combined pressures of demographic growth, rural-urban migration, and recurring climate-induced disasters. For us, the New Urban Agenda is an operational necessity and indispensable framework for promoting inclusive, resilient, safe, and sustainable cities aligned with the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, in particular SDG 11, the Paris Agreement, and the Sendai Framework framework for disaster risk reduction. Mr. President, Mozambique has built a national response anchored in 4 areas. First, on housing and inclusion. The Habita Mozambique program and the Maputo Urban Transformation Project, supported by the World Bank, are addressing informal settlements, drainage, solid waste management, and climate resilience for hundreds of thousands of residents. Second, on local governance and financing, our urban and local development project is strengthening 22 municipalities, but the persistent gap between responsibilities assigned to local government and the fiscal resources available to them remains the central constraint. Bridging it requires MDB instruments calibrated to subnational borrowers, not only central governments. Third, on climate resilience, our recently approved National Development Strategy 2025-2044 integrates climate adaptation and resilient infrastructure as core urban priorities, but climate financing at local level remains chronically insufficient. We rebuild storm after storm while simultaneously trying to plan for the next decade. Fourth, on governance and data. With UN-Habitat support, Mozambique has adopted the Degurba methodology, strengthening harmonized urban statistics and evidence-based policymaking. Good data is the foundation of accountable urban governance. Distinguished delegates, at the midterm review, progress in policy framework has been— has not been matched by delivery at scale. Mozambique's own experience illustrates The gap is not in the ambition, but in the financing, in local capacity, and in the coherence between global commitments and the means available for implementation. In conclusion, the political declaration adopted on 16th July must close the gap with concrete commitments. On concessional financing for local governments, on technology transfer, on simplified access to climate funds, on capacity building, and on the recognition that urbanization in climate-vulnerable developing countries is a global responsibility, not a national one. Mozambique is ready to deliver. We call on our partners to meet us with the means to do so. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Mozambique, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Armenia.

Thank you, Madam President. At the outset, Armenia would like to commend the convening of the high-level meeting of the General Assembly on the midterm review of the implementation of the New Urban Agenda. We also express our sincere appreciation to the Permanent Representatives of Poland and Malawi for the their excellent leadership and tireless efforts in co-facilitating the political declaration. The midterm review is an opportunity not only to take stock of the progress, but also to think how the new urban agenda can better respond to the realities on the ground. For Armenia, as a landlocked and mountainous country, sustainable urbanization is closely linked to balanced territorial development, resilient infrastructure, and stronger connectivity between cities, towns, and the rural areas. These linkages are essential for expanding access to jobs, markets, education, healthcare, basic services, and opportunities. We welcome that the political declaration reflects the diversity of national circumstances and urban development challenges on the ground, while placing a strong emphasis on closing implementation gaps and addressing persistent inequalities. We particularly commend its focus on inclusive access to basic services, adequate housing, sustainable transport and mobility, digital connectivity, social protection and care systems, and safe, inclusive, and accessible public spaces. Armenia particularly welcomes the recognition of age and gender responsive and disability inclusive planning and budgeting, as well as the importance of preventing violence and harassment in public spaces and ensuring full and meaningful participation of women and girls in urban decision-making. The implementation of the New Urban Agenda must be closely aligned with climate resilient and environmental sustainability. Cities and human settlements are increasingly exposed to the impacts of climate change, disasters, biodiversity loss, and land degradation. We therefore welcome the Declaration's focus on environmentally sustainable and resilient urban development, including through resilient infrastructure, sustainable mobility, and integrated planning and nature-based solutions. We also welcome the Declaration's emphasis on sustainable and inclusive urban prosperity, including through stronger productive capacities, support for micro, medium-sized enterprises, improved access to finance and markets, and digital connectivity, and balanced development across the urban-rural continuum. Dear colleagues, implementation of the New Urban Agenda cannot be possible without adequate means of implementation. Many countries, including middle-income countries, face growing infrastructure and housing needs while also dealing with the constrained fiscal space and limited access to affordable long-term financing. We therefore welcome the Declaration's emphasis on strengthening urban financing, building investment-ready project pipelines, expanding access to concessional innovative financing, and supporting sustainable urbanization at scale. We also welcome the recognition of the importance of UN-Habitat as the focal point within the United Nations system for sustainable urban development and the implementation of the New Urban Agenda. A coherent and well-coordinated United Nations system is essential to support member states in translating commitments into concrete results in line with the national priorities and their circumstances. Excellencies, the next decade must be a time of accelerated implementation. This requires stronger national ownership, effective multilateral governance, meaningful participation, better data, innovation, capacity building, and sustainable international cooperation. Armenia remains committed to the full implementation of the New Urban Agenda and to advancing sustainable urbanization as drivers for the Sustainable Development Agenda. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Armenia, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of France.

Thank you, Madam President. Excellencies, as we have said, lives are at the heart of our collective ability to— cities, rather, are at the heart of our ability to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals. They bring together challenges of housing, climate, biodiversity, and inequalities, but also solutions. France remains fully committed to the implementation of the New Urban Agenda. Our national report demonstrates the progress that has been achieved thanks to ambitious projects for social cohesion, urban renovation, sustainable mobility, and the environmental transition. France has adopted a national low-carbon strategy, a climate change adaptation plan, and since 2019, France has mobilized more than €3 billion in development assistance for sustainable cities. But let us be clear that no country can overcome these challenges alone, and that is why we must strengthen our cooperation and accelerate implementation. First of all, that is the sense behind our commitment to UN-Habitat. France supports the work of the Intergovernmental Working Group, Open-Ended Working Group of Experts on Decent Housing for All. We chaired that in 2023 to 2025, and we look forward to the conclusions in 2029. In parallel, France supports the plan to establish a UN-Habitat hub in Paris devoted to the social housing model. Second, that is also the meaning behind our work for more resilient buildings via the Global Alliance for Buildings and Construction that brings together more than nearly 400 organizations and through its declaration, which was adopted in Paris in 2024. All of these initiatives are part of the momentum of the Belém Call, which reminds us that we cannot respond to the global housing crisis without also including sustainability and resilience requirements. France supports the political declaration that has been adopted and calls upon member states to strengthen their mobilization around the major implementation mechanisms for the New Urban Agenda, because in the face of climate change, we must demonstrate heightened ambition to adapt our cities and make them more resilient and more accessible, more inclusive and more sustainable. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of France, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Belarus.

Chair, distinguished colleagues, in 2016, the New Urban Agenda recognized that soundly planned and effectively Regulated urbanization was a driving and formative force for achieving the goals of the 2030 Agenda. In the Republic of Belarus, we have developed and are implementing a national strategy for sustainable socioeconomic development for 2035. One of the goals of this strategy is increasing affordability of housing with the yearly addition of more than 2 million square meters of housing. The final expected result is an additional 35 million square meters of housing by 2035. The strategy also provides for the development of a polycentric population settlement model, the establishment of agglomerations, energy-efficient housing, and modernization of utility infrastructure, digitalization, and the renovation of towns. Housing construction plays a key role in the internal policy of Belarus and is carried out currently as part of our State Housing Policy Plan for 2030 and the Government Housing Construction Program for 2026-2030. The goal is improving the access of the population to affordable and high-quality housing. In 2026, the level of progress in implementing SDG 11 was more than 93% in Belarus. which instills in us the firm belief that we'll be able to achieve all of these goals' targets by 2030. Percentage of the population living in upgraded housing in Belarus is constantly rising, and by the end of 2025, it was 95%. To ensure the population has access to high-quality and energy-efficient housing, we are building energy-efficient apartment buildings, which now make up 99.7% of all of the apartments in the country. On the legislative level, we are ensuring direct participation of citizens and NGOs in urban planning and the governance of city infrastructure. We carry out public consultations on collective and individual urban planning projects, and the architectural plans are also discussed for potential new building projects. We're also working to reduce the negative environmental impact of these actions, and we're paying special attention to air quality and waste management. And we are seeing results. Currently in Belarus, 100% of the population have regular access to solid waste removal services. The role of digital innovation in creating sustainable urbanization is becoming increasingly important. In Belarus, we have developed and are actively implementing a government digital platform called Smart Cities and Regions. This platform provides single access to a broad spectrum of modern digital services and is oriented toward the needs of residents, businesses, and local governments. In 2025, this platform covered 17 cities and regions. In 2026, access to digital services will be provided to another 5.5 million people in the country. We're speaking about accomplishments. We have to also talk a bit about problematic issues. I'll give you one very relevant example that is quite a thorny issue. We all know that the international movement for twin cities is not just one of the clearest examples of implementing SDG 17, that is Partnership for Sustainable Development. It also creates the conditions needed to exchange cutting-edge practices between local governments and citizens of various countries. But this area does not fall under any of the restrictions imposed on my country. We all know they are illegal restrictions. I won't go into detail about that right now. However, the official governments of so-called highly developed European countries, under threat of punishment, have forbidden their local governments and public associations from cooperating with Belarusian partners in this regard. And therefore, this has completely disrupted the decades-long links at local levels between these cities. And civil society members who try to maintain these contacts often are under pressure in their home countries and even are officially persecuted. I won't name these countries, but I think we should all think about this and acknowledge that this practice is not helpful. This is hard to understand, unacceptable in the 21st century, and in no way helps us to achieve the SDGs, the 2030 Agenda. Belarus consistently opposes any hindrance to the full implementation of sustainable economic and social development, especially in developing countries. We are against discrimination— discriminatory restrictions. Microphone was cut off for the speaker.

I thank the distinguished representative of Belarus, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Georgia.

Mr. President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, Georgia aligned itself with the statement delivered by the European Union, and I would like to deliver the following remarks in my national capacity. We welcome the convening of this high-level meeting as an important opportunity to reaffirm our shared political commitment to the New Urban Agenda and to advance sustainable urban development. We extend our sincere appreciation to the co-facilitators, the permanent representatives of Malawi and Poland, for their dedicated leadership in guiding the inclusive and transparent negotiations on this Declaration. Distinguished delegates, Georgia is firmly committed to implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its Sustainable Development Goals, including Goal 11 on Sustainable Cities and Communities. For Georgia, the implementation of the new urban agenda is intrinsically linked to balanced territorial development. We believe in reducing regional disparities and strengthening our small and medium-sized cities. Our vision extends beyond major metropolitan centers to encompass all human settlements, from villages to mountainous areas, while strengthening the economic, social, and infrastructural linkages among them. To achieve this goal, we attach great importance to multi-level governance and the meaningful participation of local authorities. Accordingly, we are working to strengthen municipal development strategies and align them with national priorities while promoting coherent planning that is firmly grounded in local needs. We also emphasized the critical importance of integrating natural disaster risk reduction into territorial planning. This is particularly vital in vulnerable areas, and we are committed to utilizing reliable data and modern technologies to strengthen resilience. Achieving these priorities requires strong political commitment, from the government. We take this opportunity to underscore the immense importance we attach to enhanced cooperation among international organizations, development partners, and financial institutions. In line with the political declaration, Georgia plans to develop a comprehensive national urban planning policy document, expand its land management framework beyond agricultural areas by elaborating a dedicated urban and pre-urban— peri-urban land policy, and formulate a comprehensive national housing policy together with dedicated housing legislation, building upon existing programs to promote more systematic, inclusive, and equitable development. Crucially, we intend to integrate these policies into a single cohesive framework by harmonizing our planning, land use, and housing priorities Within a robust legislative framework, we seek to ensure that spatial and urban planning is effective, integrated with land management and housing objectives. We are also committed to further integrating our planning frameworks with modern digital spatial information systems to ensure that our cities are future-ready and supported by interoperable, actionable data. In conclusion, Georgia remains fully committed to the vision of sustainable urbanization, and we look forward to working together with the international community to translate these shared aspirations into tangible results. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Georgia, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Portugal.

Thank you, Excellencies. Portugal aligns itself with the statement delivered by the European Union and would like to add the following in its national capacity. 10 years after Habitat III, the New Urban Agenda demonstrated its value as the global framework for sustainable urbanization. Important progress has been made in strengthening national urban policies, improving urban governance, and recognizing the central role of local and regional authorities. Implementation has not kept pace with the scale of today's challenges. Housing shortages and affordability, climate impacts, demographic change, and increasing inequalities require renewed political commitment and stronger delivery mechanisms. Today's urban challenges have become more complex. Housing affordability, homelessness, climate resilience, demographic change, and growing fiscal pressures require integrated responses that combine spatial planning, social inclusion, and sustainable investment. Portugal has sought to respond through integrated territorial governance. The National Spatial Planning Policy Programme provides the strategic framework for integrated territorial governance, bringing together housing, mobility, climate adaptation, territorial cohesion, and economic development. It also promotes climate-resilient spatial planning, stronger coordination across levels of government, and a more balanced territorial development model. Portugal continues to strengthen its housing policy through measures that increase the supply of affordable housing, promote urban regeneration, and reinforce the role of municipalities in delivering housing solutions. Adequate housing for all must remain at the heart of the new urban agenda. Portugal has therefore adopted a new national strategy for the inclusion of persons experiencing homelessness for 2025-2030, bringing together housing, health, employment, and social protection through a coordinated prevention-oriented approach. We are also promoting more sustainable urban models through the National Circular Cities Initiative, supporting municipalities in developing local circular economy strategies through capacity building, peer learning, and cooperation. Portugal's experience confirms that the New Urban Agenda is ultimately about policy coherence. Progress is achieved when territorial planning, housing, mobility, climate action, and local governance are addressed together, rather than through isolated sectorial policies. International cooperation remains equally important. Through the Local Administration for Sustainable Development Financing Facility, Portugal supports partnerships between municipalities that strengthen local governance, improve territorial planning, reinforce institutional capacities, and promote peer-to-peer learning across the CPLP. Empowering cities also requires predictable financing that aligns territorial planning with climate and development investments. National financing frameworks should help local authorities move from planning to implementation through stronger institutional capacities and better coordinated public investment. The next decade of the New Urban Agenda will depend on empowering local and regional governments, not only as implementers, but as partners in designing and delivering sustainable urban transformation. This requires coherent policies, adequate financing, stronger institutions, and effective international cooperation. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Portugal, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative

Thank you, President.

Morocco welcomes the holding of this high-level meeting on the implementation of the New Urban Agenda at a time when our cities are transforming. The conclusion of the SG's report shows that we are facing a dual reality clear progress, but also interdependent global crises, climate emergencies, and the lack of housing. And given these systemic problems— inaction is not an option— this meeting needs to see renewed solidarity based on pragmatic urban development. For Morocco, urban development is a factor for human dignity, social cohesion, and economic resilience. This trajectory is fully in keeping with the principles of the New Urban Agenda, led by the strategic vision of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, may God assist him. And we focus on territorial equity and citizen well-being as part of our policy. We have a convergence of public policy, digitalization, involvement of local actors, as well as advanced regionalization led by the Kingdom to make our local governments real actors of development that can adapt urban policies to the realities faced by citizens. Madam President, access to decent housing remains a key priority for our public action. Through our national program called Cities Without Slums, we are beginning a structural transformation of slums and improving the living conditions of millions of citizens. We're providing direct housing aid to support the purchasing power of homebuyers, especially young people and vulnerable households. This modernization is accompanied by territorial measures through rehabilitating housing units. This demonstrates that it is possible to combine urban modernization, preservation of our heritage, and decent housing. Madam President, we must anticipate environmental emergencies in light of climate change, which particularly affects Africa and the Mediterranean region. We are aiming for resilience in our planning through our National Climate 2030 Plan. Our urban policy incorporates the fight against— to protect biodiversity and the protection of vulnerable regions. The Kingdom also places growing importance on nature-based solutions in order to address hydric stress and the risk of natural disasters. For the decade to come, we are focusing our action on 3 pillars. First of all, financial innovation to strengthen fiscal autonomy of local governments and mobilizing public-private partnerships. Secondly, strengthening urban-rural ties. To ensure that no regions are left behind by urban prosperity. And third, a digital transformation and transition with the digital platforms for more resilient and predictable planning. Lastly, we believe that the new urban agenda is not possible without international solidarity. We therefore believe that sharing experiences is a crucial principle. We are proud of having contributed to the launch of the Regional African Platform for the New Urban Agenda, which aims to co-build resilient and prosperous African cities. In closing, we call for strengthening urban multilateralism, decentralized cooperation, and building up local and regional capacity. We will strive to ensure that 2030— by 2030, cities will become places for sustainability and dignity that leave no one behind. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Morocco. And I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom.

Thank you, Madam President. The United Kingdom welcomes the political declaration, as well as the progress that's been made over the past 10 years, especially on national urban and housing policies, and the renewed commitment to the New Urban Agenda. Well-planned and managed cities are drivers of wealth, job creation, social equality, and innovation, and in our own country, we are very focused on affordable housing. With 7 in every 10 people projected to live in cities by 2036, we need to maintain momentum to achieve the goal of sustainable urbanization which benefits all. I want to focus on 3 areas for action. First, finance. Most new infrastructure will be in cities, but the financing gap is estimated at $15 trillion by 2040. Without fiscal autonomy, few local governments have the capacity to collect and spend their own taxes, and fewer still do municipal borrowing. The gap is too big for public finance alone, So cities need to crowd in more private investment. The UK is helping to mobilize private finance for urban infrastructure in developing countries through instruments such as the Private Infrastructure Development Group. Second, climate resilience. Cities need to take a long-term perspective to ensure urban infrastructure can handle a changing climate in the coming decades. As a member of the City's Climate Finance Leadership Alliance, the UK is working with stakeholders to mobilize the support needed for a climate-resilient and low-carbon transition. Through the Coalition for High Ambition Multi-Level Partnerships, the UK is also supporting better national and subnational government cooperation on climate action. And third, equality and inclusion. We need to respond ever better to demands to improve safety and accessibility of cities, particularly for women, girls, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable groups. Not considering social inclusion during the urban planning stage can then subsequently generate up to 70% more construction and maintenance costs.

Costs.

The UK has driven this focus through chairing the OECD's Blue Dot Network Investment Certification Scheme, and through this, we have welcomed measures by cities including Bogotá and Istanbul to standardize the inclusion of women and vulnerable groups in their major transport projects. In conclusion, international cooperation will be essential to meet the needs of growing urban populations. and create cities that are climate resilient, equitably designed, and support sustainable and inclusive growth. Thank you very much. We look forward to working together on this agenda.

I thank the distinguished representative of the United Kingdom, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nepal.

Madam President, The New Urban Agenda is highly relevant for Nepal as our urban transitions reshape economic growth, social inclusion, innovations, and climate actions. Nepal's Constitution guarantees adequate housing as a fundamental right. Sustainable urbanization is fully mainstreamed in national plans and policies of Nepal. We have enacted key policies and acts to advance sustainable, inclusive, and resilient urban development. Our federal systems empower local governments in urban planning, housing, land management, infrastructure, and service delivery. We are improving land tenure security for landless households, and addressing informal settlements through a structural, rights-based approach. All 3 tiers of government are working to improve access to adequate housing, secure land tenure, basic services, and sustainable infrastructure, while promoting integrated urban and territorial development. We have given importance to advance electric mobility, cleaner urban transport, stronger environmental management, and the preservation of our cultural heritage. Our policies emphasize inclusive and gender-responsive approaches across housing, infrastructures, public spaces, and service delivery. Madam President, over the past decades, Nepal has expanded planned urban development, improved safer housing, strengthened informal settlement management, and enhanced greener public spaces. More than 2/3 of our populations live in cities or rapidly urbanizing areas. Our cities are emerging as engines of economic growth, innovations, entrepreneurship, and cultural diversity. Despite this encouraging Despite the significant progress made since the adoption of the New Urban Agenda, significant challenges persist. Rapid urbanization, climate change, disasters, migrations, and financing constraints continue to strain housing infrastructures, livelihoods, and municipal services. Climate-induced floods, landslides, extreme heat, and air pollution are heightening risks for cities and settlements. At the same time, youth unemployment and outward migrations underscore the need to strengthen local economies, create decent jobs, and ensure cities become engines of inclusive prosperity. Financing constraints, infrastructure and institutional capacity gaps, and rising climate vulnerabilities continue constraining our efforts. Madam President, allow me to highlight 5 priority areas for actions. First, strengthen global cooperation, partnership, and financing. We call for enhanced multilateral support, concessional climate finance, technology transfer, capacity building, multi-stakeholder partnerships, and predictable development assistance aligned with national priorities. Second, Ensure adequate and resilient housing for all. We must integrate housing with land management, sustainable mobility, clean energy, digital connectivity, science and nature-based solutions, and cultural heritage. Third, scale up investment in climate-smart cities. Greater public and private investment is essential in renewable energy, integrated urban planning, sustainable transport, water and sanitation, circular waste management, green public spaces, and disaster-resilient infrastructure to build cities fit for future generations. Fourth, put the people at the heart of the urban transformations. Urban development must reduce inequalities, expand opportunities, strengthen social cohesion, and ensure no one is left behind. Particularly women, youth, persons with disabilities, and vulnerable communities. Finally, empower local governments to lead implementation. Localization is where new urban agendas succeed or fail. Stronger local institutions, fiscal decentralization, digital innovations, evidence-based planning, and meaningful community participation are vital for translating global commitments into local results. Madam President, sustainable urbanization is our shared responsibility. Nepal remains fully committed.

I thank the distinguished representative of Nepal, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.

Thank you, Madam President. The Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela aligns itself with the statement by the delegation of Uruguay on behalf of the G77 and China. We are appearing at this important review and stocktaking session for the implementation of the New Urban Agenda, reaffirming our conviction that sustainable urban development that is inclusive and resilient Is a fundamental right of our peoples and an essential condition for achieving truly equitable development. In accordance with the warnings of the Secretary-General regarding increasing risks of disasters and vulnerability in human settlements, our country has prioritized the comprehensive management of geological and climate risks in the framework of the state's strategic action. Faced with the devastating impact of the recent earthquakes in Venezuela, the national government implemented territorial plans based on strict technical seismoresistance criteria and climate resilience criteria. This reconstruction and urban adaptation policy goes beyond mere emergency assistance. It is formulated in the long term to shore up essential public infrastructure, to transform informal settlements, and above all, to safeguard the lives of our communities. As a part of these efforts, and with the recent launch of the Venezuela Reborn initiative, no one is alone. The Venezuelan government is joining forces with public and private sectors to put together an important initiative that will grant up to an 80% subsidy for mortgages to affected Uh, families with accessible rates for people to rebuild their homes. The Venezuelan state is coordinating these recovery activities, incorporating in strategic terms and with a great deal of gratitude the valuable assistance provided by the United Nations, its agencies, and allied countries with proven experience in this area, thus consolidating a comprehensive reconstruction model through effective international cooperation. The progress report of the Secretary-General highlights that financing and implementation capacity continue to be the most critical limiting factors at the global level. In Venezuela's case, this gap is deepening in an unfair way through the imposition of unfair, illegal, unilateral coercive measures and the blockade of our financial resources and sovereign assets abroad. We conclude by reiterating our firm commitment to the outlook of the New Urban Agenda by 2036. Its equitable and transformative implementation requires predictable financing that is free of conditions and appropriate for national conditions and realities, making sure that urban development can function as a real driver of prosperity and peace for all nations. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of the Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Jordan.

Thank you, Madam Chair. In the name of God, the Gracious, the Merciful, I— it is my honor on behalf of His Excellency Engineer Maher Abu Assaman, Minister of Public Works and the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Housing and Urban Development Corporation, I have the honor to deliver the statement of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan before this esteemed gathering. Distinguished colleagues, the midterm review of the New Urban Agenda, which brings us together today, is not merely a procedural exercise or a technical review that is limited to simply reading reports, indicators, and statistics. At its core, it is a moment of honest reflection and assessment. It is a strategic and historic opportunity to evaluate our achievements transparently and to correct our course, and when necessary, to renew our determination to confront the accelerating challenges imposed by global transformations within our cities and societies. And in this context, I am honored to share with you the experience of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in preparing the 2nd National Report on the Implementation of the New Urban Agenda. Of 2019 to 2024. This was undertaken by the Housing and Urban Development Corporation as the executive framework for the achievement of SDG 11, which aims to make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, and resilient and sustainable. And I would like to highlight the rigorous methodology that we adopted in preparing this report. Jordan in this field has achieved remarkable progress regionally and internationally. Jordan was the first Arab country and the fourth country globally to prepare and submit this report to the United Nations platform. And through this achievement, my country offers a clear and tangible indication of its enduring and effective commitment to implementing the New Urban Agenda and advancing the Sustainable Development Goals. Jordan, in preparing the report, adopted a comprehensive methodology that moved beyond descriptive monitoring towards data-driven analysis and institutional follow-up. We followed an approach that was based on participatory governance that brought together public sector institutions, the private sector, civil society, and academia. This broad participation ensured the alignment of Jordan's urban policies with the economic modernization vision that was launched by His Majesty King Abdullah II ibn Al Hussein to ensure that urban and spatial growth moves along hand in hand with economic growth, social justice, and the well-being of citizens. Distinguished colleagues, in Jordan, we fully recognize that what cannot be measured cannot be managed. Therefore, we worked diligently to develop data collection tools and mechanisms in cooperation with all relevant stakeholders, and today we proudly stand before you having increased the coverage of urban indicators from 52% in the first report to 95% in the second report, based on 10 key international urban indicators, so that we would strengthen international comparability and to ensure the highest levels of reliability and accuracy in urban data. The report also focused primarily on leveraging digital transformations as a key tool for improving the efficiency of monitoring and evaluation. This allowed us to identify developmental gaps accurately and to direct investments towards areas most in need. We, at the same time, maintained a steadfast focus on environmental sustainability and urban resilience. We take this opportunity to express our gratitude and appreciation to UN-Habitat for its technical support and efforts in developing a unified framework for urban indicators. Excellencies, Ladies and gentlemen, the most important outcome of this rich experience has been the realization of drawing lessons and translating these lessons into sustainable policies on the ground. In the Kingdom, this has led us to make a strategic decision to establish the National Urban Observatory, which would be an integrated platform to monitor the urban indicators continuously and to accelerate progress in implementing the New Urban Agenda and to use it as guidance in our future sectoral strategies based on accurate, updated, and evidence-based data. In closing, Jordan renews its firm commitment to strengthening international and regional cooperation and deepening multilateral partnerships. We are committed to accelerating joint action and mobilizing sustainable urban financing for the implementation of the New Urban Agenda and the achievement of the SDGs in a manner that would build more inclusive, sustainable, and resilient cities for future generations. I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Jordan, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Myanmar.

Madam President, Myanmar aligned itself with the statements of G77 and China. Our areas now host 58% of the global population. 10 years since the adoption of the New Urban Agenda, its implementation has not kept pace with the growing scale and complexity of housing and urban challenges. More than 1.1 billion people live in slums and informal settlements. 3 billion people lack access to safe, adequate, and affordable housing. Poverty is also urbanizing in low-income countries. Against this backdrop, the Midterm Review provides an opportunity to take stock of progress and setbacks in urban governance, spatial development, financing, and capacity building to accelerate implementations of the New Urban Agenda. Madam President, Myanmar is rapidly urbanizing, with 32% of the population estimated to live in urban areas in 2025. In recognition of the central role of the urbanizations in national development, the elected civilian government was committed to the development of the national urban policies and creations of urban planning positions for the first time under the Ministry of Construction. Unfortunately, the 2021 illegal military coup has stalled these policy initiatives that would have allowed Myanmar to effectively manage its human settlement growth. Since the coup, the total number of IDPs has gone up to over 3.7 million. More than 120,000 homes were destroyed or burned down by the military. According to the UN-Habitat, the surge in IDPs has resulted in increased urbanization, particularly in informal settlements, further straining basic services and infrastructures. At the same time, the scale of urban poverty in Yangon, Myanmar's largest city and economic hub, has grown from 10% in 2017 to 43% in 2023. The deepening of urban poverty is disproportionately affecting migrants, women, and youth. The UNDP reported that insecurity in peri-urban neighborhoods of Yangon, including crimes, extortion, and harassment by the junta, has restricted mobility, limiting the search for work and access to essential services. It is crystal clear that the military coup and its consequences had compounded pre-existing vulnerabilities in urban community, undermining the prospects of well-planned and well-managed urbanization in Myanmar. Madam President, the New Urban Agenda acknowledged the need to give special attention to countries in situations of conflict and countries affected by natural and human-made disasters. In Myanmar, conflict, violence, and forced displacement intersect with urban poverty and insecurity. People of Myanmar are compelled to choose survival over prosperity due to the military junta's violence. Any food over nutritious, nutrition over luxury due to the junta's weaponization of food. Bankers over buildings due to the junta's indiscriminate airstrikes. Reconstruction over urbanization due to the junta's destruction of residential areas. Despite these unprecedented challenges, Myanmar reaffirms our commitment to achieving the sustainable, inclusive, and resilient ASEAN development in line with the New ASEAN Agenda. In order to achieve this goal, we are of the view that we have to address the root cause, that is the military dictatorship, and successfully end it once and for all. With sustained support of the people of Myanmar, the National Unity Government and the major aligned democratic forces are working together through the Steering Council for Emergence of a Federal Democratic Union to end the military dictatorship and build a federal democratic union. As such, I ask the international community to support the people of Myanmar in their efforts to eradicate the military dictatorship and build a federal democratic union for a sustainable, inclusive, and urbanized Myanmar. And thank you, Madam Chair.

I thank the distinguished representative of Myanmar, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Trinidad and Tobago.

Thank you, Madam President. The Government of the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago reaffirms its commitment to the implementation of the New Urban Agenda and recognizes that resilient, inclusive, and sustainable cities and communities are indispensable to improving our citizens' quality of life and progress towards sustainable development. Like many Small Island Developing States, Trinidad and Tobago faces growing risks from flooding, coastal erosion, and extreme weather events, while also confronting limited land availability, fiscal constraints, and increasing housing demands. In response, Madam President, The government has identified housing, national infrastructure, and community development as strategic pillars of its Strategic National Development Plan. We have committed to constructing 20,000 affordable homes over the next 2 years through public-private partnerships and innovative construction technologies. We are expanding financial support for homeownership through increased home improvement grants, first-time homeowner assistance, and low-interest financing, while revitalizing the Land for the Landless program to provide service lots and affordable access to land. To date, 2,347 homes have already been distributed and 1,000 service lots have been prepared for for new homeowners. Special emphasis is also being placed on expanding opportunities for future generations, young families, and the most vulnerable through targeted housing initiatives. Madam President, sustainable communities require resilient infrastructure. Accordingly, the Government is implementing a strategic drainage plan and flood mitigation program supported by over US$34 million for drainage improvements, river clearing, embankment reinforcement, and pump house upgrades. An additional US$43 million has been allocated for coastal protection, disaster management, public infrastructure, and climate adaptation in vulnerable communities. These investments reflect our commitment to protecting lives and livelihoods while strengthening long-term economic resilience. Madam President, the New Urban Agenda challenges us to think beyond today's demands and to build for tomorrow's realities by promoting SDGs 9 and 11 through flourishing sustainable cities and communities while strengthening readiness to climate related hazards. Trinidad and Tobago commits to the work of this body because every family deserves a home, every community deserves protection, and every nation deserves the opportunity to build a sustainable future. Madam President, I thank you.

I thank the distinguished representative of Trinidad and Tobago, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Brunei Darussalam.

Bismillahirrahmanirrahim.

Alhamdulillah, Rabbil Alameen. The salat and salam on Ashraf al-Anbiya wa Mursalineen, Saeedina Muhammad wa Ala Aalihi wa Sahabihi Aجمعeen. Assalamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh. Madam President, Excellencies, distinguished delegates, at the outset, Brunei Darussalam wishes to thank the President of the General Assembly for convening this high-level meeting. We also extend our appreciation to UN-Habitat for their unwavering support in guiding the global implementation of the New Urban Agenda. This midterm review serves as a crucial milestone for member states to reaffirm our collective commitment to sustainable urbanization in an increasingly complex global landscape. 10 years since the adoption of the New Urban Agenda in Quito, the global landscape has shifted dramatically. As we finalized the political declaration of this midterm review, the priorities of adequate housing, climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and universal access to basic services have never been more critical. For Brunei, sustainable urbanization is fundamentally intertwined with our national vision, Wawasan Brunei 2035, which aspires to secure a high quality of life for all our citizens, supported by a dynamic and sustainable economy. Madam President, a central pillar of the new urban agenda is the provision of adequate and affordable housing. In Brunei, we view housing not merely as physical shelter, but as a catalyst for social inclusion, community resilience, and economic stability. Through our National Housing Scheme, the government of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam has subsidized and provided comprehensive public housing to our citizens. We continue to innovate the scheme by incorporating sustainable design parameters, ensuring our urban expansion utilizes land efficiently while minimizing environmental footprints. Furthermore, realizing that our urban areas are vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, the Ministry of Development Strategic Plan 2024 to 2029 places a priority on resilient infrastructure and comprehensive spatial planning. Through our town and country planning frameworks, we are adopting integrated land use strategies that balance developmental needs with the preservation of our natural ecosystems. In alignment with SDGs 6 and 9, Brunei is actively upgrading its urban infrastructure to become more shockproof. Our public works sector is rigorously implementing comprehensive flood mitigation strategies, enhancing coastal protection, and ensuring universal access to clean water and sanitation, recognizing that environmental resilience is the bedrock of a livable city. Madam President, the path towards sustainable urbanization requires cohesive action. Brunei remains committed to localizing the New Urban Agenda by translating global commitments into actionable cross-sectoral domestic policies. We recognize that no country can navigate the complexities of modern urbanization alone. Brunei Darussalam remains steadfast in our readiness to collaborate with UN-Habitat, international partners, and our fellow member states to build resilient, inclusive, and sustainable cities for generations to come. I thank you, Madam President.

I thank the distinguished representative of Brunei Darussalam, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of Nicaragua.

Presidenta.

Thank you, Madam President. The implementation of the New Urban Agenda should fully respect the sovereignty of states and recognize that each nation has the right to define its own development model in accordance with its priorities, capacities, and national circumstances. Urban development means guaranteeing that all families have access to decent housing, good quality basic services, and opportunities to live with security, well-being, and dignity. This requires much more than national will. Developing countries need greater opportunities for access to financing for development, technology transfers on mutually agreed conditions, capacity building, and international cooperation rooted in respect for sovereignty, solidarity and national priorities. We believe it is essential to strengthen South-South cooperation and triangular cooperation as effective mechanisms for sharing knowledge, technologies, and experiences that are adapted to the realities of our countries. These modalities are a complement to and do not replace the obligations and historic responsibilities of developed countries when it comes development cooperation. We reiterate that unilateral coercive measures are in violation of international law and the Charter of the United Nations, and that they continue to hinder the opportunities of many countries to invest in housing, infrastructure, and essential public services. As long as these practices continue, sustainable urban development will continue to face obstacles that limit well-being and the right to development of our peoples, which is also recognized in the political declaration that was recently adopted. Madam President, in Nicaragua, we conceive of urban development as a process of the restitution of rights. Our model of development puts people and families at the heart of public policies, promoting investments that are based on housing, healthcare, education, drinking water, sanitation, electrification, road infrastructure, and connectivity, with the aim of reducing inequalities and promoting more balanced and inclusive territorial development. As a result of that commitment, thousands of families have gained access to social housing through national programs which continue to expand access. To a decent home. We have achieved electricity coverage of more than 99.7% of the country's territory, which is one of the highest rates in our region. And we continue to strengthen coverage of clean drinking water, sanitation, roads, hospitals, and education centers as essential pillars for the well-being of the population in Nicaragua. Land planning strengthens the prevention of and response to disasters to protect communities and strategic infrastructure. We will continue to promote urban development with social justice aimed at eradicating poverty and guaranteeing a dignified life for all families with the conviction that international cooperation that is just shows solidarity does not attach conditions, and that respects international law is essential for complying— for achieving the New Urban Agenda and the 2030 Agenda. Thank you very much.

I thank the distinguished representative of Nicaragua, and I now give the floor to the distinguished representative of the observer— to the observer of the observer state of the Holy See.

Thank you, Madam President. The delegation of the Holy See welcomes this high-level meeting, which marks the 10th anniversary of the adoption of the New Urban Agenda. This milestone provides an opportunity to reaffirm the commitment to the development of urban areas that serve the human person. First and foremost, urban sustainable development is about people. Every city is ultimately a community of persons, each of whom is endowed with an inherent, God-given dignity that must be respected, safeguarded, and promoted. Therefore, urban development cannot be measured solely by the height of its buildings or the strength of its economy, but above all by its ability to enable every person to flourish by participating fully in society, and contributing to the common good. Therefore, the true measure of a sustainable city lies in how it treats all its members, and consequently, in its capacity to address the multiple forms of poverty, persistent inequalities, and environmental degradation. Madam President, among the many challenges facing urban development, homeland— homelessness undoubtedly stands out as a grave affront to human dignity. Not having a home means more than just lacking shelter. It means being deprived of security, stability, privacy, and a sense of belonging. Homelessness undermines the ability to exercise many fundamental human rights and often traps individuals and families in cycles of exclusion and poverty. The persistence of homelessness should trouble the conscience of the international community. Everybody deserves a place to call home, where they can build relationships, nurture family life, and participate fully in their community. Housing should therefore be viewed not just as a commodity or financial asset, but as a cornerstone of society at the service of the common good. In this regard, the delegation of the Holy See encourages greater investment in affordable and adequate housing, as well as integrated social services. Urban planning should also address the root causes of homelessness, such as poverty, unemployment, drug addiction, mental health issues, family breakdown, displacement, and conflict. These efforts must be developed through the meaningful participation of local communities, civil society, faith-based organizations, and those individuals with lived experience of homelessness, whose involvement could be essential for shaping effective and lasting policies. From this perspective, it is also important to promote the development of housing policies that encourage an integrated approach to local housing by addressing the strong links between education, employment, housing, and health. This will also help to prevent exclusion and segregation. In achieving the vision of the New Urban Agenda, renewed international solidarity is also required. Many developing countries, particularly the least developed countries, landlocked developing countries, and small island developing states, continue to face significant financing gaps and limited capacity to manage rapid urbanization. It is vital to continue supporting these countries through enhanced international cooperation, technology transfer, capacity building, and adequate financing if we are to build cities that are inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable for all. Madam President, Pope Leo XIV emphasizes that development is truly human when it places people at the center. This principle should guide the implementation of the New Urban Agenda in the decade ahead. When cities are shaped by solidarity, inclusion, and care for those most in need, they become more than mere places of residence and of work. They become places of encounter, fraternity, and hope. Thank you.

I thank the distinguished Observer of the Observer State of the Holy See, and we will suspend the meeting for a few minutes. Excellencies, distinguished colleagues, I appreciate your patience and your understanding. At this juncture, you know, um, it would be wise— we're, you know, waiting to extend a courtesy, but we will proceed in adjourning the meeting. So we have heard the last speaker in the plenary. May I take it that it is the wish of the Assembly to conclude its consideration of Agenda Item 178?

Yes.

It is so decided. The meeting is adjourned.